The Indianapolis Colts added some depth and versatility to the wide receiver room by signing free agent Isaiah McKenzie on Tuesday, but how might that move impact the team’s draft plans?
The addition of McKenzie isn’t one that will lead to a massive target share within the offense for the slot receiver. He’s expected to be the first in line to replace Parris Campbell in the slot, but he’s likely still behind Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce on the depth chart.
There’s a good chance McKenzie will be entering the offseason workouts battling for the No. 3 role in the offense and while the Colts should still consider adding a rookie to the room during the draft, this move may allow them to wait until the final day of the draft to make a selection at the position.
It’s a risky bet going into training camp with McKenzie as the clear-cut No. 3 wide receiver without much competition. He’s talented and explosive as a slot receiver, but he hasn’t been all that productive as a receiver (career-high 423 yards in 2022).
It would behoove the Colts to add another wide receiver in the draft as early as their fourth-round pick at No. 106 overall. There should still be some quality prospects on the board at the point in the draft to compete with McKenzie for the third spot in the room.
McKenzie is a solid depth addition to the room because he’s shifty and explosive from the slot while also possessing the ability to produce in a gadget/motion role.
But the signing shouldn’t keep the Colts from swinging for upside at the position during the draft because they could use more depth and talent behind their big duo in Pittman and Pierce.
Keep up to date with the latest news, signings and rumors through our free agency tracker for the Colts.
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